BLM D0148 - Beef Basin Spring Road

Trail Overview

Beef Basin Spring Road is a 1.9-mile point-to-point destination trail rated 3 of 10 located within the Bears Ears National Monument and managed by the BLM. Compared to some of the trails within the basin this trail is in relatively good condition. Although this trail is listed as open to all due to the trails leading to the Basin Wash it is recommended that the vehicle at least be AWD with adequate clearance. This area is rich in ancient native dwellings, ruins, and rock art. In addition to the major points of interest described on this trail, nearly every side trail leads to an area that can be explored. This trail leads past two named points of interest; the Rock Shelter Butte (37.96125, -109.89333) and the Beef Basin Spring Pueblo (37.95265, -109.90256). Located at the Rock Shelter Butte are the remains of several dwellings/shelters and a granary. The granary is located under the large rock face nearest the road. The shelters are located on the side away from the road. It is believed that the rock shelters in this are among the oldest in the basin area. Continuing down the trail drive past the location of the Pueblo and look for a small clearing on the east side of the trail. Park here for the easiest access to the Pueblo site. There are multiple rooms exposed forming this Pueblo. The route is along an unimproved dirt track with no real obstacles to negotiate. Just keep an eye out for ruts as this trail is above 6000' elevation so rain and snow can create muddy conditions. There is no cellular coverage in the area and the nearest services are located in Monticello (the shortest route is approximately 65 miles).

Photos of BLM D0148 - Beef Basin Spring Road

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Difficulty

This trail consists of loose rocks, dirt, and sand with some slick rock surfaces, mud holes possible, and no steps higher than 12". 4WD may be required and aggressive tires are a plus.

History

Beef Basin, one of the more remote places in southern Utah, is a region of grassy parkland separated by red and white mesas, on the south side of the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, bordered to the south by the foothills of the Abajo Mountains. The elevation is around 6,500 feet, high enough for significant snow in winter that makes access routes impassable, typically until April, though in summer the basin can be rather hot. The name of this area was bestowed in the mid-19th century when the grassland was used for cattle grazing. Since 2016, all this region is within Bears Ears National Monument.

Technical Rating